How To Elope In Oregon

Whether you’re drawn to the wild coastline, misty forests, or jaw-dropping mountain views, Oregon is hands-down one of the best places to ditch the stress of a big wedding and get married in a way that actually feels like you.

I know you can picture standing in a breathtaking location, just the two of you (and maybe a handful of your favorite humans) soaking in every moment. No seating charts, no awkward small talk with distant relatives – just joy and adventure.Sounds pretty amazing, right? Keep reading because I’m about to break down exactly how to elope in Oregon, step by step!

Why Elope in Oregon?

First off, the scenery is absolutely unreal. You’ve got everything from dramatic cliffs towering over the Pacific Ocean to lush, moss-covered forests straight out of a fairytale. And don’t even get me started on the high deserts, waterfalls, and snow-capped mountains—Oregon seriously has it all! Plus, a lot of these locations are easily accessible, so you can get those epic views without a 10-mile hike.

On top of that, Oregon is an elopement-friendly state with simple marriage laws and endless options for crafting a day that feels completely, unapologetically you. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy beachside vow exchange, a misty forest ceremony, or an adrenaline-filled Jeep ride to a hidden overlook, Oregon has the perfect backdrop for your love story!

How to Get to Oregon

Portland International Airport is the main hub for air travel in Oregon. It has direct flights to major cities across the country. From there, you can rent a car. Oregon is well-connected by major highways and scenic byways.

Best Places to Elope in Oregon

You really can’t go wrong choosing your elopement location here. There are foggy forests, jaw-dropping cliffs and coastlines, and alpine lakes. But if you’re looking for some ideas, here are some of my favorite places to elope in Oregon!

Cannon Beach

If you’ve ever seen a dreamy, misty Oregon Coast photo with a massive rock rising out of the ocean, chances are it was taken at Cannon Beach. Haystack Rock is one of the best-known spots here. Overall, Cannon Beach is quite easy to access, with plenty of room to roam around barefoot, pop some bubbly, and enjoy the ocean breeze.

I’d recommend visiting Cannon Beach in spring or early fall for fewer crowds. Also, always check the tide charts for your beachside ceremony, as the tide can change quickly!

For more information on eloping in Cannon Beach, check out my guide!

 

Hug Point

Hug Point near Cannon Beach is like a secret little wonderland on the Oregon Coast, with a waterfall that flows straight onto the beach, sea caves, and rugged cliffs. It’s a short walk from the parking area, but it feels totally secluded! Remember that low tide is a MUST when exploring the caves and area safely.

 

Ecola State Park

Another coastal gem near Cannon Beach is Ecola State Park. Here, you’ll find sweeping coastal views, forested trails, and dramatic cliffs overlooking the Pacific. It’s the perfect spot for couples who want a mix of beach and forest scenery in one location. It’s a great alternative to Cannon Beach, being less crowded!

 

Columbia River Gorge

If waterfalls are your thing, welcome to heaven! The Columbia River Gorge is a lush, green paradise packed with so many waterfalls you might lose count. Some are an easy walk from the car, like Latourell Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. While others require a bit more effort (Wahclella Falls are worth it, though!) Whether you want a misty, fairytale forest vibe or dramatic river views, Columbia River Gorge will have just the place for you.

I recommend eloping here in spring or early summer to get the best waterfall views! And also bring layers and clear umbrellas, because you’ll likely get mist or splashback from the waterfall!

Latourell Falls

One of the easiest waterfalls to access in the Columbia River Gorge, Latourell Falls is a stunning 249-foot drop surrounded by bright green moss-covered basalt cliffs. It’s an epic location for an Oregon waterfall elopement!

The mist from the falls WILL get you wet, so definitely bring a clear umbrella for cute, rainy-day photos and some layers.

 

Mount Hood

If you want an alpine elopement without the extreme hike, Mount Hood is your spot. Oregon’s tallest peak is surrounded by alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, and towering evergreens, so you can get a mountain, a lake, AND a forest all in one place. Trillium Lake is a favorite for that glassy water reflection of the mountain, and Timberline Lodge gives you straight-up “cozy winter elopement” vibes.

It might look warm in summer photos, but even in August, evenings can be cold. Bring layers!

 

Smith Rock State Park

Smith Rock State Park is Oregon’s desert oasis, featuring towering red rock cliffs, winding river views, and rugged terrain that looks straight out of a Wild West movie. And if you and your partner are into rock climbing, this is a world-famous spot for it.

Also, some of the best ceremony spots will require a little light hiking, so bring comfy hiking shoes. They always look great in photos!

 

Secret Beach (Brookings, OR)

Secret Beach is tucked away in the southernmost part of the Oregon Coast, and it’s exactly what it sounds like—hidden, secluded, and freaking GORGEOUS. Picture rugged sea stacks, crashing waves, and golden light filtering through the cliffs. It’s so dreamy!

For this location you also want to visit during the low tide. And the trail to the beach is short but quite steep, so you should wear good shoes!

 

Hoyt Arboretum (Portland, OR)

If you want a forest elopement with easy access, Hoyt Arboretum is a hidden gem just minutes from downtown Portland. You’ll be surrounded by towering redwoods, sequoias, and lush ferns, all with easy-access trails that make this one of the most stress-free elopement locations in the state.

If you plan to elope here since it’s a public park, early mornings or weekdays offer the most privacy.

 

Crater Lake National Park

Want to elope next to the deepest, bluest lake in the U.S.? This place is unreal. Formed by a collapsed volcano, Crater Lake is surrounded by steep cliffs and panoramic views. Keep in mind that some roads close in winter due to heavy snow, so always check the conditions before making your trip!

 

Cape Kiwanda

Cape Kiwanda with towering dunes, sandstone cliffs, and Pacific waves is a dreamy Oregon Coast elopement location. Want to climb a dune barefoot and watch the sun set over the Pacific? This is your place! The dunes are a bit steep, so prepare for a mini workout, but the views are SO worth it!

 

Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

This 12-mile stretch of the southern Oregon coast is packed with sea stacks, hidden coves, forested cliffs, and dramatic overlooks—Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor is a total dream for adventurous couples!

 

Oregon Elopement Permits

Some locations don’t require a permit if your event is under 50 people. However, each location has its own set of rules and the rules tend to change often. Always check the official website or call the park office to get the most accurate and up-to-date info! As an Oregon elopement photographer, figuring out all things permits and logistics is something I help all my couples with!

 

 

Best Time to Elope in Oregon

Oregon is gorgeous all year-round! When you choose your elopement date, you should consider the kind of scenery and vibe you’re after and your chosen location! Fall by the coast will look a bit different than in the forest, for example!

If I had to pick the ultimate sweet spot, I’d say late spring (May-early June) or early fall (September – early October). You get epic scenery, good weather, and fewer crowds! But if you’d like more deets, continue reading!

Spring

Spring in Oregon is when the waterfalls are at full force, the forests are lush, and wildflowers start popping up. This really is the best time for waterfall or forest elopements and avoiding the summer crowds. However, you’re likely to get some rain, especially in early Spring. May would be your sweet spot when the days are longer, crowds are still few, and it’s also still peak waterfall season.

Summer

If you want long, sunny days, warm weather, wildflowers in full bloom and those iconic Oregon Coast sunsets, summer is where it’s at. The mountains are finally snow-free, meaning places like Mount Hood, Smith Rock, and Crater Lake are at their best and easily accessible. This is a great time for coastal and beach elopements!

However, this is peak tourist season, so expect crowds at popular spots! Don’t worry though, as your elopement photographer, I have plenty of secluded spots up my sleeve.

Fall

Fall in Oregon is stunning. The summer crowds are leaving, the weather is still nice, and the fall colors are out in full force—especially in Hoyt Arboretum, Columbia River Gorge, and the Cascade Mountains.

However, by late October, the mountains start getting snowy, and some higher-elevation locations (like Crater Lake) start closing off roads.

Winter

If you love snowy wonderlands, cozy vibes, and epic winter landscapes, Oregon is gorgeous in the winter. This is the best time for a snowy elopement, ski lodge vibes, and dramatic, moody coastal photos. However, watch out for coastal and mountain storms, which are more likely in the wintertime.

Getting Your Oregon Marriage License

To obtain a marriage license in Oregon, both you and your partner must be at least 18 years old and provide valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport. You’ll also need to pay a fee, which varies by county. Keep in mind that there is a three-day waiting period before the license is valid, BUT many counties will waive the waiting period for a small fee. Once you have your license, you can get married anywhere in the state of Oregon.

Where to Stay

Choosing where to stay is also an important decision in your elopement adventure. The right Airbnb or lodge will help you soak in the experience without spending too much time on the road. Staying near your chosen elopement location means more time to enjoy the day and less time commuting.

Also, your chosen accommodation could really enhance your overall elopement experience, especially if you want to chill by a cozy fireplace or stargaze from a hot tub! Try to find the best vacation rental, lodge, or hotel to help you bring that vision to life.

Luckily, Oregon offers plenty of romantic accommodations, from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels.

1. The Allison Inn & Spa, Newberg – Located in the heart of Oregon’s wine country, The Allison Inn & Spa offers a luxurious and romantic retreat for couples. With its award-winning spa, farm-to-table restaurant, and beautiful grounds, this resort is the perfect place to unwind after your elopement.
2. Tu Tu’ Tun Lodge, Gold Beach – Nestled in the coastal forests of southern Oregon, Tu Tu’ Tun Lodge offers a secluded and intimate setting for couples. With its cozy cabins and beautiful gardens, this lodge is the perfect place to escape from the world and celebrate your love.

Fun Elopement Activities

There really are endless possibilities when it comes to planning your elopement. This is why it comes in handy to have a photographer who can help guide you in your decisions and so you’re not left wondering if it’s actually feasible to visit Cannon Beach and Natural Bridges all in the same day!

Below are some examples of what you could do:

• Bathe in Nature – Picture this: exchanging vows amidst majestic landscapes that seem straight out of a fairytale. Oregon offers an array of natural wonders—pristine forests, dramatic coastlines, and breathtaking mountains. Consider starting your day with an intimate sunrise hike along the coast or a secluded spot overlooking the cascading waterfalls of Silver Falls State Park.
• Local Flavor and Delights – There is so much good food in Oregon! From Portland’s foodie scene to the fresh seafood on the coast, you can find all kinds of yummy dishes. Oregon is also the perfect place if you want to celebrate at a brewery after hitting the trails or if you want to put together a picnic with local treats.
• Adventurous Pursuits – So much adventure can be found in Oregon – paddle boarding, pristine blue lakes, hiking coastal cliffs, and sunrise hot air balloon rides, just to name a few. Plus, not everything requires a strenuous hike – there are plenty of adventurous things you can do without breaking a sweat!
• Secluded Serenity – If you’re looking for a more chill & cozy vibe then Oregon also has tons of secret hideaways for you. One of my favorites is this coastal house rental. There are also gorgeous forest cabins and amazing campsites to choose from!

 

Sample Oregon Elopement Timeline

When creating your timeline and itinerary you will want to make sure you allow plenty of “buffer” time so you can take into account traveling from location to location and also just in case something runs late.

This also helps you to have a much more flexible schedule so you don’t have to run around worrying about how much time you have left. Another helpful thing to keep in mind is when sunset is so that you can plan on getting those epic sunset colors in your photos! Most important – remember that you can do whatever you want. It’s why you’ve chosen to elope after all!

Here’s an example Oregon elopement timeline so you can see what an all day elopement in Oregon looks like:

10am – Meet at Airbnb for getting ready photos and first look

12-3pm – Head to waterfall hike for private vows, first dance in the woods. Take time to explore the trails and enjoy the forest.

4pm – Stop at brewery for drinks/time to relax/celebrate

5pm – Leave for the coast

6 – 9pm – Picnic on the beach, photos of the couple, bonfire, explore tide pools, take star photos after dark

Oregon Elopement Packages

Your Oregon elopement day should be stress-free, fun and unforgettable and that’s where I come in. In my Oregon Elopement Packages you’ll not only get stunning photos captured throughout the day, but also an elopement experience that feels like YOU. Whether that means hiking to a hidden waterfall, running barefoot on the beach, or cozying up in a forest with your closest people. I’ll help with location scouting, timeline planning, and making sure you actually enjoy your day instead of stressing over logistics.

Ready to do this? Reach out, and let’s start planning your dream Oregon elopement!

 

 

More Oregon Elopement Resources

Latourell Falls Engagement Session

Oregon Elopement Activities

10 Oregon Elopement Ideas

Cannon Beach Elopement